If you've tried diet and exercise modifications without any success, taking a weight-loss pill might assist with dropping pounds. With dozens of diet pills available, it's hard to know which pills are safe and effective. As of 2011, there are a couple diet pills available over-the-counter that are both safe and effective for weight-loss including Alli and conjugated linoleic acid.
Alli
Alli is a reduced-strength version of the prescription medication orlistat. This medication is approved for use in adults 18 years and older and works to block fat absorption. This reduces the amount of calories your body absorbs. This weight-loss pill may produce an additional 3 to 5 lb. weight loss, annually, in addition to what you would expect to lose through proper dieting and exercising alone, according to MayoClinic.com.
Alli is taken with meals that contain fat. Each meal must contain 15g or fewer of fat. If you eat too much fat, undesirable side effects may occur such as urgent bowel movements. More serious side effects include brown urine or jaundice. If you have these symptoms, contact your doctor right away.
Conjugated Linoleic Acid
Conjugated linoleic acid is a supplement that may cause weight loss. Not eating the right types of fat may be linked to weight gain. Conjugated linoleic acid naturally occurs in dairy products, red meat and lamb. Since most dieters cut high-fat products like red meat from their diets, they don't get enough conjugated linoleic acid. Since the diet pill appears to make the metabolism work more efficiently, adding this supplement to your diet may promote weight-loss. Conjugated linoleic acid may result in a 2 to 4 lb. weight loss annually, according to Natural News.
Drugs to Avoid
Not all weight-loss pills are effective and safe. In fact, some pills are dangerous. For example, bitter orange, a pill that claims to boost calorie burning is possibly unsafe. Country mallow and ephedra were found to be so unsafe the Food and Drug Administration banned the pills from the market. Talk with your doctor before taking any new diet pill. Some of these pills also have the potential to interact with other prescription medications you might be taking.
Physical Activity and Diet
Most diet pills require you to incorporate physical activity and diet changes into your routine. Plan at least two hours and 30 minutes of physical activity weekly. Also, eat a reduced-calorie diet, rich in low-fat dairy, lean protein, fruits, vegetables and healthy sources of fat such as avocados and olive oil. These lifestyle changes can help you lose additional weight and keep the weight off.
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